observation
The act of watching something or someone carefully to learn information. In science, it is the process of looking at facts or events to understand how they work.
Examples
3 of 5My observation of the birds in the park taught me about their habits.
My observation of the birds in the park taught me about their habits.
The doctor kept the patient under close observation for twenty-four hours.
The doctor kept the patient under close observation for twenty-four hours.
That is a very good observation about the new teacher.
That is a very good observation about the new teacher.
Synonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of an 'observatory'—a building where scientists use telescopes to make an observation of the stars.
Quick Quiz
The scientist wrote down her ____ of the chemical reaction in her notebook.
Correct!
The correct answer is: observation
Examples
My observation of the birds in the park taught me about their habits.
everydayMy observation of the birds in the park taught me about their habits.
The doctor kept the patient under close observation for twenty-four hours.
formalThe doctor kept the patient under close observation for twenty-four hours.
That is a very good observation about the new teacher.
informalThat is a very good observation about the new teacher.
The study relies on the direct observation of children's play behavior.
academicThe study relies on the direct observation of children's play behavior.
Based on my observation of the market, prices will likely rise next month.
businessBased on my observation of the market, prices will likely rise next month.
Synonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
keep under observation
to watch someone or something carefully over time
observation deck
a high place designed for looking at a view
powers of observation
the ability to notice things that others might miss
Often Confused With
Observance refers to following a custom or law, while observation refers to the act of looking and watching.
Usage Notes
Use this word when you are discussing the process of gathering information through your senses, especially sight.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 'observement', but the correct noun form is always 'observation'.
Memory Tip
Think of an 'observatory'—a building where scientists use telescopes to make an observation of the stars.
Word Origin
From the Latin 'observare', meaning to watch over, note, or heed.
Grammar Patterns
Quick Quiz
The scientist wrote down her ____ of the chemical reaction in her notebook.
Correct!
The correct answer is: observation
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
A witness is a person who sees an event, such as a crime or...
dataData refers to facts, numbers, or information collected toge...
discoveryIn a legal context, discovery is the process where parties i...
perceptionPerception refers to the ability to see, hear, or become awa...
analysisAn analysis is a careful study of something to understand it...
evidenceInformation or objects that help to prove something is true...
More science words
hypothesize
B2To suggest a possible explanation for something based on limited evidence, used as a starting point for further investigation.
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radiation
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wavelength
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optics
A1Optics is the branch of science that studies light and how it interacts with things like lenses and mirrors. In modern usage, it also refers to how an event or action is seen by the public.
thermodynamics
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atom
A1An atom is the smallest possible part of a chemical element. Everything in the world is made of millions of these very tiny particles.
reaction
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